Artists in a Movement Moment

This "Idea Forum" at the 2011 National Performance Network in Tampa, FL organized by Arts & Democracy Project considered the role of artists in this movement moment. Occupy Wall Street and related actions across the country have captured attention for issues of inequality and injustice and have catalyzed momentum for broad social change. The “99%” frame has become an inclusive invitation to people outside of the elite to consider themselves part of the movement.

What is the role of the arts and cultural organizing in a moment such as this?

How can artists most effectively link their practice to efforts to organize for lasting social change in diverse contexts?

What new forms of artmaking and creative organizing are growing out of this work?

The conversation was initiated by Michael Premo and Rachel Falcone of Housing is a Human Right, whose installation was featured at the meeting. Kathie DeNobriga, Arts & Democracy Project, facilitated.